Finley Community Park

Park Overview

Finley Community Park is a 12.21-acre public recreational area located in Santa Rosa, California. The park, named after Ernest L. and Ruth W. Finley, was established in June 1990 following a donation from the Finley Foundation to make the park, community center, and aquatic complex possible.

The park provides a versatile outdoor space for residents and visitors alike and is located along West College Avenue. It features a mix of natural and developed areas, including large grassy expanses and paved walking trails, providing opportunities for both active recreation and leisurely strolls.

Recreational Facilities

The park is designed to accommodate a wide range of activities and interests. It includes sports facilities such as basketball courts and tennis courts, as well as more specialized areas like horseshoe pits and sand volleyball courts.

For water enthusiasts, the park boasts an Aquatic Complex with a semi-heated outdoor lap pool. The pool area is designed with accessibility in mind, featuring easy access for people with mobility challenges. Water aerobics classes are offered with instructors who make the experience fun and engaging.

The park has become a popular spot for pickleball enthusiasts, with both permanent and temporary courts available. The courts host open play sessions where newcomers are welcome, and occasionally tournaments are held here.

Family Amenities

Finley Community Park caters to families with young children, featuring a playground suitable for various age groups from toddlers to older children. The play area includes sandy sections and various equipment in a spacious setting.

For those seeking a more relaxed experience, the park offers numerous picnic areas with tables and barbecues, perfect for outdoor gatherings and community events. A highlight is the large ramada (covered picnic area) that can be reserved for parties and family reunions. There are approximately 50 picnic tables scattered throughout the park, many placed in shaded areas, allowing visitors to find quiet spots to enjoy nature.

Access and Amenities

The park provides modern amenities such as restrooms and parking areas. There are two main entrances: one off West College Avenue near the tennis courts, aquatic and community centers, and another off Stony Point Road, which leads to the playground, large reservable picnic site (known as the Gazebo), and the volleyball and basketball courts.

The park is open 24 hours daily and is well-maintained with clean green spaces. Accessibility features are incorporated throughout, making it welcoming for visitors with varying mobility needs. Ample parking is available, though spaces can be limited during busy times or special events.

Community Center

The park is not just a recreational space but also a community hub. It houses the Finley Community Center, a multipurpose facility designed for versatility, making it suitable for various events and gatherings. The center includes conference rooms available for rent, with professional and responsive staff to assist with events.

The center functions as a gathering place for different community groups and activities. It hosts senior programs, making it a popular spot for older adults to socialize and participate in activities like Chinese Mahjong. The facility also showcases works from local artists in its welcoming lobby space.

Additional Features

The beautifully landscaped grounds offer peaceful walking paths for exercise or casual strolls. The park provides good bicycle access with nearby parking, making it a convenient starting point for bike rides through Santa Rosa.

Though the park is mostly known for its recreational amenities, it also offers quieter spaces where visitors can relax and enjoy nature. With its mix of active and passive recreation options, Finley Community Park truly functions as a versatile community resource for people of all ages and interests.